Nutrition for People in Renal Failure

Nutrition is extremely important when you are experiencing renal failure. A well-balanced diet, according to DaVita.com, is one of the ways to keep your kidneys and your body functioning efficiently.Your nutrition will also depend upon your stage of renal failure.

Prevention/Solution

• In the early stages of renal failure, your doctor may recommend a lower sodium diet.

Minerals

• Lower sodium, phosphorus and potassium are key to a healthy diet when you have renal failure. As renal failure progresses, your kidneys no longer have the ability to remove excess amounts of these minerals.

Protein

• Although protein is good for your muscles, you may have to cut back when you are in the late stages of renal failure. Too much protein places stress on your kidneys and accumulates protein waste in your blood, according to DaVita.com.

Seeing a Specialist

• If your renal failure begins to worsen, your doctor may recommend that you meet with a dietitian.

Role of a Dietitian

• Your dietitian will make sure you consume enough calories and maintain the appropriate balance of fats and carbohydrates so you don't lose muscle or weight.